On your visit to Andaman, it is very sure that you will be awestruck by the heavenly scenic beauty, pristine sea beaches with turquoise waters and virgin forests. To add to the amazing experience, the local markets such as the Sagarika Government Emporium in Port Blair are ready to welcome you with their unique varieties of items.
Looking for souvenirs to carry back home? Then make sure you visit the government emporium – Sagarika Emporium. Maintained and run by the local administration, this shopping complex has a wide collection of goods, ranging from beautiful handicrafts with intricate carvings to furniture, lampshades, tribal masks and many more.
The market is famous for being the hub of all local goods. On your visit to the Sagarika Emporium, you can find immensely alluring goods. Made of the famous Padauk wood, the minuteness and the detailed designs on the crafts will surely mesmerize you.
Apart from that, you can also find clothes, locally made. T-shirts with the logo of Andaman are almost a common sight here and are very famous among tourists. We recommend you grab a few of those as a memory of this sensational trip.
Among all, the most striking items up for sale in the government emporium are the ones made from seashells. These locally-employed artists with their exquisite skill-set create the most enticing jewellery, crockery and other items using the seashells.
The market is situated at M.G. Road, Middle Point in Port Blair, just opposite the State Library. You can visit here anytime from 09.00 a.m. to 07.00 p.m. on all days except Mondays.
The Andaman Islands is all about pristine beaches and enthralling water activities. But do you know that this union territory is also the one-stop destination for shopaholics? Along with offering the most amazing rejuvenating experiences and exciting adventure sports, the Andamans houses some of the prettiest and the most exciting markets that you just cannot miss.
Sagarika Government Emporium is the place to visit in Port Blair if you want to see some of the best creations of the locals. A platform for showcasing the talent and selling beautiful creations is provided to the locals via this emporium. The people sell handmade stuff that is primarily made with wood, seashells, and jute. You will find everything here ranging from handicrafts to wooden items, mirrors, and even apparel. Everything sold here is completely authentic and stunning that you will not be able to resist.

Highlights

The markets in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands range from the very popular Aberdeen Bazaar to the unique Andaman Handicraft Emporium. A wide variety of items can be bought from here that you can take back home as cute souvenirs or something that you can gift to your loved ones. The markets are an absolute delight and something you can’t miss out on. You can buy wooden artifacts, pearl jewelry, some really fancy hats, and a lot more.
Sagarika Government Emporium is a moderate budget market that is best visited with for its exclusive handicrafts. Whether you are on your own, or with your family, partner, or friends, this is a great place to spend fun time. It is closed on Mondays. An important thing to know in advance is that you should carry cash as cards may not be accepted here.
Sagarika Emporium has to be your perfect place for shopping if you are willing to buy some pretty handicraft items. Visiting this place should definitely be in your travel itinerary if you plan on visiting the Andaman Islands. One of the most famous markets in the islands features this emporium. It is a paradise for those looking for some pretty seashell articles and handicraft items.
  • Location: DAG Colony, Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands 744101
  • Timings: 9 AM to 7 PM (every day except Monday)
  • Recommended duration: 3 hours

    • Overview

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    Sagarika Government Emporium is located on MG Road in Port Blair. This shopping complex in the Andaman Islands is popular for selling wide variety of lovely handicraft products. These handcrafted items made with bamboo, seashells, coconut shells, and wood are perfect souvenirs, and you can take them back for your loved ones.
    With its unique heritage of aboriginal tribes, the islands are quite popular for them. If you are a shopaholic, then Sagarika Government Emporium is not less than a dreamland for you. You can purchase many amazing items for sale such as coconut lamp shades, murals made out of sea shells, and tribal artifacts.
    There is an entire complex dedicated only for the Nicobari tribes found in various islands of the Andaman archipelago. An ideal place for grabbing beautiful souvenirs of your sojourn in the remote islands, Sagarika Emporium has a fixed price policy. Thus, you don’t need to stress about bargaining with the shopkeepers.
    It is a unique market in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands where you will find all kinds of seashell items ranging from mementos like bamboo cane crafts to very beautiful coconut shell lamps, and many other famous items. You can buy the best variety of seashell earrings, bracelets, lockets, and keyrings here. If you love accessories, then you are sure to lose track of time here.

    Things to do

    Drop by Sagarika Emporium if you are hunting for souvenirs or gifts for your family and friends back at home. This government-run market offers a wide variety of local goods at fixed prices. The stores here are stocked with handicrafts, furniture, and carvings made from padauk wood.
    Tribal masks and lampshades made from coconut shells are sought-after items here. You will be amazed to see the products made by self-employed locals. Using mother-of-pearl and seashells, they can create salt and peppershaker sets! You will also find products here that are on sold on discounts. When you are in Port Blair, keep a couple of hours to visit Sagarika Government Emporium.

    Nearby hotels

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    Sagarika Government Emporium is one of the best markets in the Andaman Islands. Tourists from all over the world come to visit this market when they are in the Andamans. Here, you can buy a wide range of products ranging from plain and simplest household goods to some very fancy and distinctive household goods. Your vacation in the Andaman Islands will be complete only after visiting this famous market.
    Some of the best hotels located nearby the emporium are as follows:
  • Sinclairs Bay View
  • Welcomhotel By ITC Hotels, Bay Island
  • Seashell Hotel
  • Hotel Megapode Nest
  • J Hotel
  • Ami Grace
  • Haywizz
  • Ashiaanaa Residency Inn
  • Hotel Sentinel
  • Sunray Homes
  • Hotel Shreesh
  • Hotel Landmark

    • How to reach

    Sagarika Government Emporium is easily accessible from anywhere in Port Blair. Just take an auto or a taxi to reach there.
    This emporium portrays Andamanese culture in the most amazing way possible. This place is counted as one of the most famous markets in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Ranging from common household items to luxurious items, you can find everything here.
    You are sure to find something for yourself here even if you are on a budget trip. It is quite vast and showcases a diverse variety of shops. The emporium is located in the close vicinity of various popular eateries and restaurants that you should definitely try.

    Overview

    For the water sport enthusiasts and adventure fanatics, there is no better place than Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex at Andaman. Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports complex also called the Andaman Water Sports Complex is located near the cellular jail in the northwest part of Port Blair in Andaman & Nicobar.
    The first of its kind in India, Rajiv Gandhi water sports complex provides an exhilarating experience and indelible memories to visitors with its assorted aqua sports such as safe water sports and adventure water sports under one roof.
    Some of the thrilling activities in safe water sports include Paddle Boats, rowboats, water cycles, glass-bottom boats, bumper boats, etc. Jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, speedboat rides, windsurfing, etc make up the adventure water sports.
    The aqua activities present in the complex are suited to both adults and kids. The state of the art infrastructure and ever-watchful guides guarantee strict adherence to safety guidelines and instill confidence in visitors to revisit it frequently.Rajiv Gandhi Complex holds historic prominence too. It houses a memorial commemorating the Battle of Aberdeen that was fought between Britain and the aborigines of Andaman in 1859.An artificial waterfall and a children’s park nearby enhances its reputation as a perfect tourist hub for visitors of all ages and tastes.

    How to reach Rajiv Gandhi Water sports Complex

    From Port Blair: Rajiv Gandhi Water sports complex is situated at a distance of 9.8 km from central One can reach the complex in 20 -30 minutes by car.The Vir Savarkar International airport, at Port Blair, is at a distance of 4 km from the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex.

    The visitors can reach Port Blair by sea from Visakhapatnam, Chennai, or Kolkata.

    Visakhapatnam – Port Blair: 1200 km.
    Chennai – Port Blair: 1190 km.
    Kolkata – Port Blair: 1255 km.

    From Havelock Island: The distance from to Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex is 61.6 km and includes a ferry ride. The ferry ride takes 90 minutes and is charged at Rs. 750 per person (one-way).

    Places to visit near Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex

    Cellular Jail: a national memorial that incarcerated hundreds of Indian freedom fighters during Independence struggle is one of the most sought out tourist places near Rajiv Gandhi Water sports complex.

    Marina Park: A picturesque park on the Oceanfront with lots of children plays instruments like swings etc. A romantic stroll with your loved one along the seaside walk lane with street lights on both sides illuminating the path and cool sea breeze whispering sweet nothings will make your day.

    Samudrika Naval Marine Museum:  Run by Indian Navy, the museum offers an insight into the History of Andaman Islands, Geographical information, Aborigines of Andaman, Archeology and Marine life.

    Corbyn’s Cove :  Perfect destination for sun basking and swimming. Warning: Crocodiles are occasionally spotted.

    North Bay Island:  Known for snorkeling and scuba diving.

    Zonal Anthropological Museum:  It showcases the lifestyle and culture of the 4 Negrito tribes of Andaman (the Jarawas, Sentinelese, Great Andamanese, and the Onges) and two Mongoloid tribes of Nicobar Islands (the Nicobarese and the Shompens).

    Moreover, Have a look on the more .

    Things/ Activities:

    Safe Water Sports:

    Paddle Boats: Charges Rs 20 per 2 seater & Rs.30 per 4 seaters. Duration: 30 mints.

    Rowboats: Charges Rs. 20 per 2 seaters, Dur: 30 mins
    Glass-bottom boats: The boats with glass bottoms enable tourists to witness exotic marine life at close quarters. Charges Rs. 350/- per head
    Bumper Boat: Charges: Rs.30/head. Duration: 10 mints.

    Also, Find more to make your trip amazing.

    Adventure Water Sports:

    JetSkiing: Enjoy riding the waters at high speed and splashing the water all over. Can compete against others and win the race.

    Charges: Rs. 550/ 1 person & Rs. 750/ 2 persons. Duration: 10 mints

    Parasailing: Feel the adrenalin rush and have an exhilarating experience of floating in the air and witnessing the aerial view of the beautiful landscape below.

    Sea walking: Adventurists can don the breathing apparatus, walk on the seabed with the help of instructors and lifeguards, and own the unforgettable memories of watching underwater aquatic life and coral reefs. Charges Rs 3200/ head. Duration: 40 mints.

    Scuba Diving: Charges: Rs. 3500/head. Duration: 40 mints.

    Snorkeling: Charges Rs. 1000/person. Duration: 30 mints.

    Banana boat rides: Charges around Rs. 350- Rs. 600 per person

    If you are fond of water sports then find here more .

    Places to stay near Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex

    Hotel de Marina
    Sinclairs Bayview Port Blair
    J Hotel
    Fortune Resort Bay Island –Member ITC Hotel Group
    Hotel Sentinel
    Hotel Coral Inn
    Hotel Royal Palace
    GKM Grand Hotel

    Also, Find here a list of best to enjoy your calm, comfortable and spacious stay.

    Medical Facilities in Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex

    GB Pant Hospital (Open 24 Hours)
    Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital, Port Blair
    INHS Dhanvantri, Naval Hospital, Ashvini Nagar, Port Blair

    Best Time to visit Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex

    The best time to visit Andaman in general and Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex, in particular, is the summer season between the period April to June. The average day temperatures range between 28-34o C and night temperatures 24-27o C. It is also the perfect time to indulge in water sports.

    Balmy and cool climatic conditions prevail during the winter season with 25 – 30o C during daytime and 20 – 22o C during nighttime. The fewer crowd of tourists and lower than usual prices make it a good time to visit the complex during the winter season.

    Find here the best time to visit port blair.
    Mobile Connectivity in Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex

    One of the major concerns during vacationing at a remote location is losing connectivity with the outside world due to network failure.

    In Andaman, there are only three major networks; BSNL, Airtel, and Vodafone that deliver 3G services until now. As long as you are in Port Blair, there will be no problem with connectivity.Airtel has recently rolled out 4G connectivity in Port Blair. The visitors can now look forward to faster and reliable digital services.

    Travelers’ Tip before visiting the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex

    If you are a Foreign National visiting the Andaman Islands, please carry your required permits such as Indian Visa granted by your embassy and Restricted Area Permit (RAP) stamping from authorities at Port Blair.

    Please carry sufficient Indian currency, if you are an immigrant.

    It takes 3 days to reach Port Blair by Ship travel. Consult your physician and take necessary medication to avoid seasickness.

    If you happen to visit during the summer season, ensure you carry all necessary items like SPF 30+ sunscreen lotion, a sipper, mosquito repellent, and sunglasses.

    Do not enter restricted or tribal areas around the islands.

    Take adequate medical care like getting anti-malaria shots etc prior to taking up the journey. Consult your physician and take his advice.

    Avoid shiny jewelry and brightly colored swimsuits, as they tend to attract predatory aqua creatures. Carry light & loose clothing esp. cotton clothes to protect yourself from heat, sweat, and fungal infections. Wear protect footwear while walking or hiking to avoid snakebite and injuries.

    Look at our trip to know more about here.

    Entry Fee and Photography allowance in Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex

    Entry Fee for Rajiv Gandhi Complex: Free
    Photography (for professional with own cameras) Rs. 200
    Video Camera Rs. 1000/-
    Film shooting Rs. 3000 to 10,000/ day

    Visiting Time & Duration for Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex

    Visiting Time: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (all days of the week & public holiday)
    Duration: 1-2 hours
    Best time: during the day.